Melania Trump helps reunite fifth group of Ukrainian, Russian children with families

First lady Melania Trump's office announced a fifth group of Ukrainian and Russian children that she helped reunite with their families, as five more children are now with their loved ones.

"While diplomacy and peace-building are important to this effort, they are surpassed by our collective ability to place children above international disputes," Melania Trump said in a statement. "Every reunion is a reminder that compassion, dignity, and family can transcend even the darkest of times: war. My representative and I continue working with the governments of Russia and Ukraine to safely return children to their families and communities."

The first lady's reunification program officially began in October 2025 after she had President Donald Trump hand-deliver her note to Russian President Vladimir Putin during their August 2025 summit in Alaska. Thus far, the White House reports around 30 Ukrainian children have been reunited with their families.

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Thousands of civilians, including children, have been killed since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, with last year being the deadliest year since the war began, according to United Nations figures.

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"The first lady’s leadership has bridged political divides in pursuit of a singular humanitarian mission: placing the well-being of children above conflict and helping restore families torn apart by war," the White House announced in a Thursday morning news release.

The returnees are the first since April.

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"This is not an easy feat, I applaud leadership from both nations in working with my representative and me to bring love and safety back to each individual who has been displaced as a result of this horrible war," Melania Trump said in an April 23 speech. "I'm grateful for the opportunity to serve as first lady but understand that my persistence alone is not enough."

"Together we can change people's lives for the better."

Reuters contributed to this report.